In what some pilots are calling an inconceivable moment in flight operations and training, Boeing recently admitted the existence of the maneuvering characteristics augmentation system (MCAS), an angle of attack related stall prevention system that was unknown to operators of the Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft, like the one flown last week by a Lion Air crew when it departed Jakarta Indonesia. The Lion Air crew experienced an unexpected nose pitch down shortly after takeoff as the aircraft was passing through 5,000 feet. Unable to recover from the event, all 189 people aboard perished in the crash that followed.
Lion Air Investigation Takes an Unexpected Turn
Key Takeaways:
- Boeing recently admitted to the existence of the MCAS (Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System) on the 737 Max 8, a stall prevention system that was previously unknown to pilots and not included in training materials.
- The MCAS, which can command nose-down trim, is circumstantially linked to the Lion Air crash that experienced an unexpected nose pitch down, leading the FAA to issue an emergency airworthiness directive.
- Pilot associations expressed significant anger and frustration that Boeing withheld information about this critical flight control system, deeming it "asinine" not to inform the pilots operating the aircraft.
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